"Amy was a little nervous, so she held onto her mother's hand as they walked up to the door. They knocked. No response. Amy tried again, this time more loudly. She thought she heard voices inside. Children's voices? "Amy tried pushing the door open and was startled when it moved! Why wasn't the house locked? Who was inside it? Still clutching her mother's hand, Amy began exploring. 'Hello?' she called out. 'Anybody home?'"

How did Amy most likely feel when she thought she heard children's voices inside the Old Stone House?
annoyed and angry
cheerful and excited
angry and upset
curious and scared

each year on this day, i make it a point to listen to dr. martin luther king jr.’s great “i have a dream” speech. it’s electrifying every single time.

the content of dr. king’s speech, his inspiring presence, and the moment in history all came together to make the iconic “i have a dream” speech the defining moment of the american civil rights movement. but there are several other reasons why this speech, delivered over 50 years ago, remains an example of one of the best speeches in american history.

since part of my job is to people become better presenters, i’ve noticed several techniques that we can all learn from and be inspired by in this magnificent speech.

it’s anchored in a powerful related location

in most cases, you can’t handpick the spot to give a presentation, as mlk did for supreme symbolic effect when he stood on the steps of the lincoln memorial and echoed the opening words of the gettysburg address (“five score years ago . . ). but you absolutely can amplify your message by adapting it to your setting and location.